There have been no resolutions made in writing yet. I'm pretty used to things happening belated around here and hoping Hugh and I will get to our New Year accountability date sometime this month. There are ideas, thoughts and intentions brewing but I haven't found the time to make my categorized list. I did start the Sweat with Kayla fitness app that in a few days of sorry looking push ups, has moved "getting stronger" towards the top of my list. I've chatted with a few people about helping me put on plated dinners to raise money and awareness for a few charities I'd like to contribute more to. Potentially in our backyard which scares me but sometimes you just have to jump in. Hugh and I also agreed we'd let the posts here be more casual if they need to be - less photos, maybe me not writing much if I am not in the mood, could even just be an idea for a salad dressing. It doesn't always need to be such a thing. You may not even notice a difference but for me, us, it takes a bit of the pressure off of having to try too hard and just allowing this to be...easier. I'll get that all down on paper by the end of the month.
Cleo turns one next week so it feels like a fresh start for all of us in some way. This past year has been largely consumed by learning how to function as a family of four with two self employed people working from home. The chasm between wanting to be present and engaged as a parent and focused and motivated to make your own living. All I know so far is that you can't do a good job, or stay happy, trying to be everything to everyone at all times so I'm looking forward to letting go of some expectations.
Onward, 2017.
MUSTARDY BRUSSELS SLAW // Serves 4
I use a careful hand and a mandoline in shaving the brussels sprouts because I feel like they get more feathery than a food processor or the prepackaged ones ever get. This could be an inefficient, high maintenance call. The alternative is totally fine, I would just let them sit in the dressing a little longer to soften up slightly as they'll be thicker.
We can deconstruct this into a warm side dish if you're not feeling salad. You can half the brussels, toss them in the vinaigrette, and roast them at 400' in a large rimmed baking dish for about 35 minutes or until just browning on the edges. While still hot, stir in the shallots and apples and then top the dish with the walnuts and cheese. Shop once, cook twice.
// mustardy vinaigrette //
2 tsp. dijon mustard
2 tsp. whole grain mustard
2 tsp. agave nectar
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1 tsp. sea salt
1 tsp. dried Italian herbs
1 lb. brussels, cores trimmed
1 small bunch of kale, stems removed
1 medium shallot, minced, about 2 Tbsp.
1 crisp apple, cored and diced small
1/2-3/4 cup toasted walnuts pieces
1/3 cup grated pecorino or parmesan cheese, plus more to garnish
To make your vinaigrette, put all ingredients in a jar with a lid and shake to mix. Season to taste.
Using a mandoline or the grater blade on a food processor, shave your brussels thin and put them in a large mixing or salad bowl. Chop the kale well (should have about 2 cups) and add it to the brussels along with the shallot, apple and half of the walnuts and cheese. Toss with desired amount of dressing to coat and serve with remaining walnuts and cheese on top.
